New Delhi, Feb 14 (NationPress) West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder has expressed that stepping into the role of captain at such a young age proved to be an immense challenge. He noted that had he been aware of the difficulties involved, he might have postponed accepting the leadership role.

Holder, who became captain at the age of 23, reflected on the substantial responsibilities associated with leading the team, particularly the pressures that extended beyond the cricket field.

“When I took on the captaincy, I was unaware of how much it would require from me off the field. My initial perspective was focused mainly on on-field performance and managing players during matches. However, taking on the captaincy at that early stage and managing all the off-field issues, including selection and various challenges, was incredibly tough. It was indeed a demanding experience for me,” Holder stated on JioStar.

“Nevertheless, I don't believe I would be the person I am today without that experience. I have no regrets about it. Yet, if I had known back then what I understand now, perhaps I would have hesitated to take on that role at such an early point in my career. Being aware now of what captaincy entails and the meaning behind leading a nation, I likely would not have accepted it at that time,” he added.

The all-rounder reminisced about the West Indies’ successful campaign in the T20 World Cup 2016, where the team united despite facing off-field challenges at the tournament's onset.

“The 2016 campaign was particularly challenging at the beginning. Upon our arrival, we encountered issues with clothing and contracts, which was far from ideal leading into a World Cup. However, we gradually organized ourselves and united. This collective determination became our driving force.

“We aimed to demonstrate that things should have been better organized. We rallied around a single cause: to prove to everyone that we were deserving of better treatment. We wanted to put on a remarkable performance and show the world that we are capable and deserve respect,” he added.

Discussing his ongoing motivation to represent the West Indies, Holder stated that his goal was to leave the team in a stronger position than when he started his international journey.

“When results weren't favorable, the only option was to improve and defy expectations, showing the world that we are not defined by our last performance. For me, that became a significant motivator. Additionally, I aimed to elevate West Indies cricket to a better state than when I joined.

“Regrettably, that has not transpired. Many of the challenges we faced when I entered West Indies cricket persist today. However, driving change within the dressing room and fostering a culture that leads West Indies cricket toward improvement remains my core motivation,” he concluded.

Holder is currently in impressive form during the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. He took three wickets in their opening match against Scotland and followed it up with a quickfire 33 runs off just 17 balls in the subsequent match against England.

The West Indies, pursuing their third T20 World Cup title, have secured victories in their first two matches and are eager to continue their winning streak against Nepal this Sunday at the famed Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.